Adoption

In the Old Testament

Adoption, as defined in canon law, is foreign to the Bible. The incidents in Exodus 2:10 and Esther 2:7-15 cannot be adduced as examples to the contrary, for the original text contains but a vague expression instead of the word adopted, and the context merely implies that Moses and Esther were the protégés of their respective benefactors. The people of Israel enjoyed a similar privilege at the hands of God. The facts mentioned in Genesis 48:5, however, bear close resemblance to adoption taken in its strict sense.

Contact information. The editor of New Advent is Kevin Knight. My email address is webmaster at newadvent.org. Regrettably, I can't reply to every letter, but I greatly appreciate your feedback — especially notifications about typographical errors and inappropriate ads.